First Year, First Choice is a one-hour, cinema verite documentary style that explores Alabama's attempt to dramatically improve the state's public education system through a brand new initiative requiring 2009-10 high school students to pursue a high-level diploma. Through the lives of two teachers and students in economically disparate regions, First Year, First Choice is a window into the real-life struggles- in and out of the classroom- that a southern American community faces as they challenge the next generation to live up to their potential.

NYWIFT programs, screenings and events are supported, in part, by grants from New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, and New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.